Save With Solar: The Homeowner's Guide to Solar Energy

In the U.S., over 2 million households use solar power. As solar technology improves, more homeowners are interested in solar panels for their homes. Before you invest in solar power, review your home's ability to use solar power along with the benefits of solar energy. The following tips below (brought to you by Confront the Climate Crisis) can help steer you in the right direction.

Evaluate Your Home's Solar Capability

The more exposure to sunlight your home receives, the more potential your home has with solar power. Several factors contribute to the amount of sunlight you receive:

⦁ Climate

⦁ Roof type

⦁ Shade

If you have heavy tree cover or an aged roof, you may have to consider repairing the roof or eliminating some of the shade to benefit from solar panels.

Consider your roof's shape, size, and slope. South-facing roofs may have the best exposure. Likewise, a roof with a slope of 15 to 40 degrees may be best for solar power. The best roofing material for solar panels includes asphalt, tiles, and metal. Most homes have asphalt shingles. The following explains the process for each roofing material:

⦁ Asphalt: Contractors drill studs into the roof and attach mounts to the studs. Then, after panel installation, professionals seal the space between the stud and panel with flashings.

⦁ Tile: Tile roofs include concrete, slate, or clay. While installing solar panels on an asphalt roof may be less expensive, tiles last longer and are more waterproof than asphalt. To install tiles, a professional removes tiles, and the feet of the solar panel are fastened directly.

⦁ Metal: When you have standing seams on your metal roof, you can attach the panels directly to the seams.

Prepare Your Home for Solar Power

Before you have your solar panels installed, make sure that your roof is in the best shape possible. Search for well-reviewed cleaners on sites like Angi to ensure that your gutters are functioning. To find a reputable company, verify customer reviews and testimonials online. It’s also a good idea to compare estimates from different providers.

You also start the process of solar panel installation with a custom quote. Professionals design your solar panel system based on your home's attributes. The designs have to be submitted to local municipalities for permitting. During the installation, the contractor orders the panels and ensures no structural flaws in your roof. Next, the crew begins wiring and mounting equipment.

Reap the Benefits of Solar Power

According to the experts, advantages of solar power include tax break eligibility, net metering, and a lower carbon footprint. Most homeowners consider solar power because of the lower energy bill. How much you save on energy depends on how much solar energy you can produce. In addition to a lower electricity bill, you may be able to sell your energy to the utility company.

In addition to cost savings and cleaner energy, solar panels also boost the value of your home. Many potential homeowners love the idea of solar energy but may not know how to install or execute a solar energy plan. Potential buyers may be interested in a system you already installed.

After installation, you receive about 30% of the cost of the solar energy system back when you file taxes. In addition, you may receive Solar Renewable Energy Credits from your state government.

Solar power can lower your energy bill and raise the value of your home. Follow the above tips and contact professionals to ensure a proper solar panel installation.

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